See Te Papa’s masterpieces for free

Wellingtonians have
the opportunity to see Te Papa’s latest temporary
exhibition – The European Masters – on Thursday 3
February for free, thanks to Wellington City Council’s
sponsorship of the museum.

The exhibition – almost 100
works loaned from Frankfurt’s Städel Museum – features
works by household names such as Renoir, Rousseau, Degas,
Picasso and Monet.

On the whole, the works are mostly by
German and French painters. It includes landscapes in the
Realist and Impressionist traditions, sculpture, exquisite
portraits and Surrealist works. Themes covered range from
the domestic, to biblical and social commentary.

The
Council’s Economic Portfolio Leader, Councillor Jo
Coughlan, says it’s well worth taking a few hours out of
your day to check it out.

“Through rates, Wellingtonians
have contributed to making this exhibition happen, so it’s
great to be able to give something back to our residents,”
says Cr Coughlan. “This kind of initiative helps our
economy, too as Wellingtonians become ambassadors for our
attractions.

“Major events and exhibitions such as this
are a key factor in maintaining Wellington’s position as
New Zealanders’ favourite destination and ensuring our
visitors have an experience fitting of the ‘coolest little
capital in the world’.”

Cr Coughlan says the free day
for Wellington residents will be really busy and people
should expect to queue.

“A certain amount of people will
be let in to the space at any given time to avoid
overcrowding. Thursday is also Te Papa’s late night, so
everyone has a chance to get to the exhibition,” she
says.

To gain free entry, Wellington City residents need
to present proof of their residential or ratepayer’s
status, such as a bill or rates invoice showing their
residential address. This offer does not apply to Upper
Hutt, Lower Hutt, Porirua or Kapiti residents.

Te Papa is
open from 10am until 9pm on Thursdays. Last entry is at
8.30pm.

The exhibition is at Te Papa until Sunday 27
February. The usual admission charge is $22.50 for an
adult.

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